Athlete Transition Grant

Athlete Transition Grant

Purpose

The Rose Medal Foundation Athlete Transition Grant provides direct financial support to retired athletes as they navigate life after sports. The purpose of this grant is to ease the transition from competitive athletics into new routines, passions, and healthy lifestyles by covering expenses that promote wellness, personal growth, and community connection.

Eligible Applicants

    •    Must be a retired athlete (any level: high school, collegiate, or professional).

    •    Must demonstrate how the requested reimbursement supports their transition into life after sports.

    •    Must be based in the United States (for this first round).

Eligible Expenses

Funds may be used to reimburse expenses directly related to:

    •    Wellness & Mental Health

    •    Therapy or counseling sessions

    •    Wellness retreats, workshops, or programs

    •    Meditation, mindfulness, or wellness apps

    •    Health & Fitness

    •    Gym or studio memberships

    •    Sports or fitness equipment

    •    Adult recreational league or class registration fees

    •    Nutrition & Healthy Living

    •    Grocery expenses focused on nutritious foods

    •    Meal prep services or cooking classes

    •    Hobby & Skill Building

    •    Supplies or equipment for creative, professional, or recreational hobbies

    •    Registration fees for classes or training programs (e.g., photography, coding, art, music, etc.)

Ineligible Expenses

To ensure funds are used productively, the following will not be covered:

    •    Alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs

    •    Travel for leisure/vacations

    •    Gambling or entertainment unrelated to wellness/hobby development

    •    Personal debt repayment or unrelated bills (rent, car payments, etc.)

Award Amount

    •    The grant will be awarded as a reimbursement for eligible expenses up to $____ (amount to be determined based on fundraising).

    •    Recipient must provide proof of payment (receipts, invoices, or bank statements) before reimbursement is issued.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

    1.    A completed online application form.

    2.    A short written statement (300–500 words) describing:

    •    Their athletic background.

    •    The challenge(s) they’ve faced transitioning out of sports.

    •    The specific expense they are requesting reimbursement for, and how it will support their well-being and growth.

    3.    Documentation of the expense (paid receipt, invoice, or other proof of purchase).

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

    •    Alignment of expense with the mission of Rose Medal Foundation.

    •    Demonstrated need and potential impact.

    •    Clarity of personal statement and commitment to life after sports.

Reporting

    •    Grant recipients agree to provide a short testimonial (written, audio, or video) about how the grant supported them. This helps Rose Medal Foundation share impact stories with donors and inspire future giving.

    •    Grant recipients agree to shout out and tag Rose Medal Foundation on social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn & X).

Timeline (example)

    •    Applications Open: [Date]

    •    Applications Close: [Date]

    •    Recipient Announced: [Date]